THE LITTLE LEAVEN THAT LEAVENS THE WHOLE LUMP

"Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes… Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? " (1 Corinthians 5:6; Song of Solomon 2:15).

Let this truth resonate within the depths of your soul - a mere speck of leaven has the power to transform the entire lump. Oh, how crucial it is to grasp the gravity of this revelation! For even a solitary sin, whether it be embraced or permitted to linger in our lives, within the sacred walls of our homes, or amidst the congregation of believers, possesses the insidious ability to infiltrate and contaminate the very essence of the church. Do you comprehend the magnitude of this? What may initially appear inconsequential, a minuscule amount of leaven, ultimately manifests itself as an all-encompassing force, permeating and influencing everything in its path. The bible references above in both the Old & New Testaments perfectly illustrates the impact of even the slightest exposure to false doctrine concerning essential matters of salvation. This influence quickly permeates one's entire conduct, leading to a complete distortion of beliefs and actions. With the subtle distortion of doctrine, with the insidious allure of worldliness, with the festering seed of malice, and with the wickedness that festers within the individual. These seemingly insignificant fragments, once allowed to take root within the individual, inevitably seep into the sacred sanctuary of the home, and from there, they poison the very fabric of the church. Can you not see the urgency? We must eradicate these pernicious elements, for they threaten to unravel the very foundation of our faith. Let us not underestimate the power of a little leaven, for it possesses the potential to shape the destiny of all that surrounds it. There are the leavens of beware and leaven of the kingdom to explain.

A. THE LEAVENS OF BEWARE

The leaven of Pharisees: "In the meantime, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy " (Luke 12:1; Matt.16:6). Oh, my dear brethren, let us heed the solemn warning of our beloved Savior! The leaven of the Pharisees, oh how it poisons the very essence of truth and righteousness. It is a metaphor, a powerful symbol of the insidious influence of false teachings and hypocrisy.

Listen closely to the words of our Lord, as He implores His disciples to be vigilant, to be on guard against this corrupting leaven. For it is hypocrisy, my friends, that lies at the heart of this treacherous leaven. The Pharisees, oh how they deceive! They wear a mask of righteousness, yet their hearts are filled with wickedness and deceit.

But it does not end there, my brethren. The leaven of the Pharisees extends beyond their hypocritical ways. It encompasses the man-made doctrines and traditions that they have shamelessly added to the sacred scriptures. These distortions, these perversions of God's holy word, oh how they lead astray the faithful!Let us not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Let us not be swayed by the false teachings and twisted interpretations of the Pharisees. Let us cling steadfastly to the pure and unadulterated truth of God's word. For it is in His word that we find salvation, that we find the path to righteousness and eternal life.

Oh, let us be discerning, my dear brethren. Let us be vigilant in our pursuit of truth. Let us reject the leaven of the Pharisees and embrace the pure, untainted teachings of our Lord. For in doing so, we shall find true enlightenment, true freedom from the chains of hypocrisy and false doctrines.

The leaven of Sadducees: "The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him, Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother "(Matt.22:23-24). The leaven of the Sadducees, oh how it infuriates me! It is a despicable lack of faith, a vile doubting of the supernatural and miraculous works of our Lord. Can you believe it? They dare to call it their "doctrine" alongside the Pharisees. These Sadducees, they arrogantly attempt to explain everything naturally or scientifically, foolishly excluding the very existence of God's mighty power. But fear not, for our Savior, Jesus, has exposed their wickedness! He boldly proclaims that the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees is nothing but hypocrisy, a detestable spiritual pride, and a nauseating self-righteousness. And let me tell you, those Sadducees, they were even worse! They shamelessly twisted the scriptures to fit their liberal interpretations, shamelessly denying the glorious resurrection of the dead.

The leaven of Herod: And he charged them, saying, take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod” (Mark 8:15). The leaven of Herod, oh how it symbolizes the insidious and ruinous nature of his actions! It is a piercing reminder of the disbelief that consumed the hearts of the Pharisees and Herod, driven by their trepidation of Roman retaliation should Jesus be hailed as the Messiah. In the depths of Mark 8:15, Jesus himself issues a grave warning about this leaven of Herod, a warning that resonates with the very essence of our souls. For it signifies the elevation of earthly laws above the divine moral code set forth by God Himself. Some scholars even propose that this leaven of Herod alludes to his relentless pursuit of political power, his willingness to forsake his Jewish heritage in order to maintain his grip on authority under the oppressive Roman regime. Regardless of its precise meaning, the phrase "leaven of Herod" serves as a clarion call, a clarion call to be vigilant against the perils of political ambition and corruption. It serves as a resounding reminder, a resounding reminder to hold steadfast to our principles and beliefs, to never waver in the face of adversity. Oh, let us heed this warning, let us embrace the righteousness that lies within us, and let us never succumb to the allure of power at the expense of our integrity.

The leaven of Achan: Oh, let me passionately illuminate the profound gravity of the leaven of Achan! In his eyes, it may have seemed like a trivial matter, but in the eyes of our Almighty God, it was a grievous sin of disobedience, covetousness, stealing, deceit, and even murder (Joshua 7:1-26). Can you fathom the audacity of Achan, daring to take that which was dedicated to the Lord and hiding it in his tent? The consequences of his transgression were dire, my dear brethren. Trouble and defeat befell the Israelites in their sacred quest to conquer Canaan. The once mighty army of Israel trembled in fear, and countless lives were lost. Joshua himself questioned God, and the Lord, in His righteous anger, threatened to withdraw His divine presence from His chosen people.

It was not until Achan's sin was exposed through the casting of lots that he finally confessed his wrongdoing. But alas, it was too late. The punishment for his disloyalty, for daring to defy the Lord's claim on those sacred spoils, was severe. Achan and his entire family were stoned and burned as a solemn retribution. Therefore, "Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes” (Song of Solomon 2:15). Let this cautionary tale resonate within our hearts, my fellow believers, as we navigate the intricate tapestry of our personal and communal lives. Let us be ever mindful of our actions, for they carry weighty consequences not only for ourselves but also for those who surround us. May we never forget the wrath that can be incurred by our disobedience and disloyalty to the Lord. May we strive to walk in righteousness, honoring the sacred things claimed by our God, and avoiding the path that leads to destruction.

B. LEAVEN OF EXPANSION OF GOD'S KINGDOM

In one of Jesus' awe-inspiring parables of the kingdom of heaven, He unveils a profound truth using the metaphor of leaven. Listen closely as He speaks: "The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened." (Matthew 13:33). Oh, how this parable ignites a fire within my soul! In this divine revelation, leaven is not to be misconstrued as a symbol of wickedness or corruption. No, my friends, it is a symbol of the kingdom itself! Can you fathom the magnitude of this revelation? The kingdom, like that minuscule amount of leaven, will gradually and clandestinely infiltrate every nook and cranny of society. Just as a woman delicately incorporates the tiniest speck of leaven into the dough, so does the gospel commence with humble beginnings.

But do not underestimate the power of this seemingly insignificant leaven! Just as it silently and diligently permeates the entire batch, so too will the gospel have an indelible impact on every facet of society. It will transform hearts, minds, and souls, my dear brethren. It will revolutionize the very fabric of our existence!

Oh, let us not overlook the profound message embedded within this parable. It is a call to action, a call to embrace the gospel and allow it to work its miraculous wonders in our lives. Let us be the vessels through which the kingdom of heaven spreads like wildfire, illuminating the darkness and bringing hope to the hopeless.

May this parable serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that even the smallest acts of faith and love can have monumental consequences. Let us be the leaven in this world, my beloved brethren, spreading the transformative power of the gospel far and wide. For in doing so, we shall witness the glorious manifestation of the kingdom of heaven on earth!

GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out” (1 Timothy 6:6,7).

From a biblical, "godliness with contentment" is a concept that emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God while being satisfied and at peace with what one has. It is a state of being where a person's focus is on cultivating a deep reverence and devotion towards God, while also finding fulfillment and satisfaction in their current circumstances.The apostle Paul, in his letter to Timothy, writes, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content." (1 Timothy 6:6-8, KJV). This passage highlights the idea that true gain and fulfillment come from living a life of godliness and being content with the basic necessities of life.

Godliness refers to a life that is characterized by holiness, righteousness, and obedience to God's commandments. It involves seeking to align one's thoughts, actions, and attitudes with God's will and living in a way that reflects His character. It is a pursuit of a close relationship with God, growing in faith, and striving to live a life that is pleasing to Him. This book of First Timothy, penned by the apostle Paul, also serves as a letter of support and direction to Timothy, a young leader within the church. Its primary objective is to offer encouragement and guidance as Timothy assumes his new responsibilities. In Chapter 6, Paul delves into the concept of true godliness. He warns Timothy about individuals who mistakenly believe that godliness is a means to acquire wealth. These deceitful teachers engage in fruitless arguments, stir up unnecessary controversies, and actively pursue schemes to amass riches on earth. Such behavior not only distracts believers from genuine faith in Christ but also undermines the true essence of godliness. Paul takes this opportunity to clarify the genuine meaning of godliness, emphasizing that it stands in stark contrast to the distorted portrayal presented by these erring preachers.

Contentment, on the other hand, is a state of being satisfied and at peace with what one has, regardless of their circumstances. It is an attitude of gratitude and thankfulness for the blessings and provisions that God has provided. Contentment does not mean complacency or lack of ambition, but rather a recognition that true fulfillment and joy come from a relationship with God, rather than material possessions or worldly achievements.

Contentment is a virtue that seems to be increasingly scarce in today's world. The relentless pursuit of personal gain, regardless of the consequences, has resulted in numerous betrayals, the overthrow of rightful authorities, harmful criticism, and the spread of propaganda. Regrettably, in many nations, the absence of contentment has led to the plundering of national resources and even the elimination of political adversaries.

In the book of Numbers 16:1-11, the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram stemmed from their dissatisfaction with the roles and positions that God had assigned to them. This discontent led them to revolt against the leadership of Moses and Aaron. Alongside two hundred and fifty influential and respected leaders of the community, they challenged the authority of Moses and Aaron, accusing them of assuming excessive power. In response, Moses assured them that God would reveal His chosen leaders and make His will known. God hates covetousness, which is the root cause of discontentment. Had Gehazi the servant of Elisha not allowed greed to get the better of him, he would perhaps have gotten a double portion of the Spirit of God as Elisha also received from Elijah. Similarly, Balaam lost his life and ministry due to greed.

In the earthly ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ, he taught about the importance of contentment. In the Sermon on the Mount, He said, “Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?... But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:25, 33, KJV). Jesus emphasized the need to prioritize our relationship with God and trust in His provision. He taught that seeking God's kingdom and righteousness should be our primary focus, and when we do so, God will take care of our needs. This teaching highlights the connection between godliness and contentment, as we find true fulfillment and peace when we trust in God's faithfulness and provision.

There are several examples that illustrate the concept of "godliness with contentment." One such example is found in the life of the apostle Paul. Despite facing numerous hardships, including imprisonment, persecution, and physical ailments, Paul demonstrated a deep sense of godliness and contentment.

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes, " Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things, I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. " (Philippians 4:11-13, KJV).

Paul's contentment was rooted in his unwavering faith in God and his reliance on Him for strength. He understood that true fulfillment and satisfaction come from a deep relationship with God, rather than external circumstances. Despite facing trials and tribulations, Paul remained steadfast in his commitment to live a godly life and found contentment in knowing that God was with him and would provide for his needs.

Consequently, we should demonstrate the importance of prioritizing a deep relationship with God, living a life of obedience and trust, and finding contentment in Him, regardless of external circumstances. It is through this godly perspective that true fulfillment and peace are found.

THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION

“When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains” (Matthew 24:15-16). Here, Jesus spoke of a coming “abomination of desolation” in the Olivet Discourse as He referenced a future event Jesus was referring to a prophecy originally given to the prophet Daniel: “And from the time that the daily sacrifice is taken away, and the abomination of desolation is set up, there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days” (Daniel 12:11; Read Daniel 9:27). The concept of the "abomination of desolation" is indeed a significant and biblical prophecy in the Bible, primarily in the book of Daniel and mentioned by Jesus in the New Testament. It carries both historical and future implications, and its interpretation can vary among theologians and scholars, but the word of God is true an abided for ever. Here is an overview of its key aspects of this prophecy:

1. Daniel's Prophecy (Daniel 12:11; Daniel 9:27): In the book of Daniel, specifically in Daniel 12:11, there is a reference to the "abomination that causes desolation." This prophecy has historical fulfillments, including events involving the Seleucid ruler Antiochus IV Epiphanes during the intertestamental period. Antiochus defiled the Jewish temple and prohibited Jewish religious practices.

2. Jesus' Reference & future fulfillment (Matthew 24:15): Jesus refers to Daniel's prophecy in the New Testament in Matthew 24:15, where He speaks of a future fulfillment of the "abomination of desolation." This reveals that while there were historical events related to this prophecy, there is also a future aspect that is yet to occur. Many interpretations of the "abomination of desolation" focus on a future fulfillment associated with the end times. This often involves the idea that an Antichrist figure will set up an idol or engage in a blasphemous act in a holy place (possibly a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem) and demand worship. "And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH Revelation 17:4-5" (Please read Revelation17:16-17).

3. Desolation and Fleeing: According to the prophecies, the abomination of desolation will trigger a period of great distress, and people in Judea are advised to flee to the mountains for safety. This event is seen as a significant sign of the end times and the Second Coming of Christ. Read Matthew 24:16-21; Rev 12:14.

4. Variations in Interpretation: The interpretation of the "abomination of desolation" can vary among different Christian denominations and theological traditions. Some see it as a literal event, while others view it symbolically, representing various forms of spiritual idolatry, persecution, and wickedness.

While historical events, such as those involving Antiochus Epiphanes and the Roman occupation of Jerusalem, may have partial fulfillments, there is a widely held biblical prophecy that there will be a future, ultimate fulfillment associated with the end times and the coming of an Antichrist figure. Interpretations of the specifics of this event may vary, but it remains a significant aspect of eschatological discussions in Christian faith.

The explanation provides a detailed interpretation of the prophetic elements related to the "abomination of desolation" as described in the book of Daniel and mentioned by Jesus in the New Testament. It highlights several key points:

A. Treaty with Israel: There will be a future covenant or treaty made with the people of Israel, often interpreted as a significant future event.

B. Duration of the Treaty: The treaty's duration is understood to be a period of seven years, commonly associated with the prophetic Daniel "week" in biblical terms.

C. Midway Event: In the middle of this seven-year period, the ruler will take actions that disrupt Jewish religious practices, specifically ending the sacrifices and offerings in the temple.

D. Desecration of the Temple: The ruler will commit an act of desecration within the temple, often involving a sacrilegious object or act.

E. Timing of Judgment: The desecration of the temple will continue for a specified period, 1,290 days (approximately 3½ years and 1 month), until the judgment of God is executed. This is the Great Tribulation that depicted as a period of unprecedented suffering and turmoil, as indicated in Matthew 24:21. It is said to last for a period of three and a half years and is considered the latter half of a seven-year tribulation period. It is often seen as means to bring suffering to Israel, leading them to recognize their need for the Messiah (Jesus Christ) whom they have historically rejected. This suffering is believed to prepare Israel for their ultimate reconciliation with the Messiah. Therefore, the interpretation aligns with the idea that the "abomination of desolation" represents a significant and offensive act that defiles a holy place, causing desolation and leading to divine judgment. The act of "abomination" is detested or loathed by God due to its offensiveness to His holiness. it is seen as an act or object that goes against God's sacred nature and triggers His judgment. However, all believers who are raptured would not go through the great tribulation but experience eternal salvation and join in a joyful celebration, often referred to as the "marriage supper in heaven with Christ," as described in Revelation 19:6-9.

As a result, it serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance, prayer, and readiness for the unfolding of these events as part of the broader eschatological narrative in Christian faith. This is a message of encouragement and caution for believers because the time is short. Here are some key points for Christians to take note:

1. Watchfulness and Prayer: Believers are encouraged to remain vigilant and in a state of constant prayer, staying spiritually awake and aware of the signs of the times (Matthew 26:41; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).

2. The Imminent Rapture: The message highlights the imminent catching away of the saints popularly known as the rapture of the saints, a significant event in Christian eschatology where believers are said to be caught up to be with the Lord in the air. The bible reference in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, fully explained how the rapture looks like. It describes the how the true believers in Christ (the brides) will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air, an event that is anticipated to precede the Great Tribulation. Hence, be prepared!

3. Avoiding Earthly Entanglements: Believers are cautioned against becoming too entangled or preoccupied with the affairs of this world. Earthly concerns, distractions, and sinful behaviors are seen as potential hindrances to spiritual readiness (1John 2:15-17).

4. Spiritual Preparation: The message underscores the importance of spiritual purity and living a blameless life. This includes turning away from sin, seeking forgiveness through Jesus Christ, and striving for holiness (Matthew 24:42; Hebrews 12:14).

5. The Analogy of the Bride: Believers are encouraged to prepare for the rapture like a bride getting ready for her bridegroom. This analogy signifies a state of readiness, purity, and anticipation (Revelation 19:7).

Above all, believers in Christ are encouraged to continue and maintain their faith, remain vigilant in their spiritual walk, and be prepared for the anticipated return of Christ and the rapture event. They are to prioritize more on spiritual matters over worldly concerns and to live a life that is pleasing to God in anticipation of that glorious event. For those who are yet to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ by repenting of their sins through confession and forsake them are encouraged to do so now because tomorrow may be too late. Now is the day of salvation!

JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH

Justification is the act of God’s grace through which one receives forgiveness and remission of sins and is counted righteous before God through faith in the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. Having thus been cleared of every guilt on sin, the regenerated stands before God as though he had never sinned. Now,he’s totally forgiven and the sins forgotten. God looks at the redeemed not on the basis of any personal merit but in the light of what Christ has accomplished for mankind by his substitutionary death on the cross of Calvary."Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law?of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith” (Romans 3:24-30; Please read Romans 4:6-16).

To actualize the benefits of salvation in Christ Jesus, the sinful man should acknowledge his helplessness and hopelessness in this life, and his desperate need of Savior. As he is incapable to provide solution to his problem of sinful nature or change his eternal destiny of damnation (Isaiah 59:8), the need for justification becomes crystal clear. To meet the price of divine justice, due price needed to be paid. Man lacked both the capacity and purity to afford this. It therefore required the sacrifice of the spotless Lamb of God, unstained and without blemish in Himself to pay the necessary ransom with His blood for the expiation of man’s sins. It’s instructive to note that the nature of sins is not such that man could handle on his own or by merit of his good works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Just as water baptism cannot justify the Gentiles so also is circumcision cannot justify the Jew nor water baptism the Gentiles. And by the standards of God’s righteousness and holiness, full church membership or confirmation does not suffice to justify any one. The faith in the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary can assure a repentant soul the full justification through faith by the grace of Jesus.Before justification, sinner had works of the flesh of different category as stated in (Galatians 5:19-21) but as a new creature, he has divine ability to manifest the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Therefore, in the lifestyle, conduct, disposition and speech, the redeemed by Christ’s Blood are more like Him, having been quickened by the Spirit of the living God.

The misleading concept of justification by works, as an article’s of man’s religion, is opposed to justification by faith because it denied the grace of God and dishonors the blood of Jesus Christ. The reference in the General Epistle of (James 2:14-26) may the interpreted amiss by cursory reader of the Scriptures, where it asked. “But wilt thou know o vain man, that faith without work is dead? The basic point being stressed by the Epistle of James is that works as referred to in the scenario are a compliment of justification by faith. Whereas, Paul the Apostle in his Epistle to Romans, chapter four is essentially doctrinal, and the practical is based upon the doctrine, that of James is essential practical, the doctrinal element being purely incidental. Hence, a man is justified by faith without works, in another sense, we see “how by works a man is justified, and not by faith only”. This explained the justification by faith before God, and justification by works before men. Properly understood, none really is mutually exclusive.

THE WRITERS OF THE BIBLE

The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it (Psalm 68:11). About forty authors of various occupations; Apostles, prophets, priests, prince, king, soldier, farmer, scribe, physician, tax collector, farmer, prime-minister, cupbearer, tentmaker etc. God used every usable vessel to convey His truth to the people. More than fifteen centuries elapsed between the writing of Genesis and Revelation. Nearly 400 years elapsed between the Old Testament which was written predominant in Hebrew (few verses in Aramaic) while the New Testament was written in the holy Bible is the word of God. Even though it is written by the agency of man, the Bible is the very word of God.

The evidences are:The amazing unity This unity is achieved in spite of the long period involved in the written and many authors of different occupations.It cannot be destroyed There were hammers of persecution, ridicule, higher criticisms, liberalism, and atheism but the mighty anvil of the scriptures stands unbroken, unshaken, and unchipped.Its Historical accuracy With the coming of archeology almost all the towns and places mentioned have been discovered.Its scientific accuracy. Although the Bible is a spiritual message from God and not specifically a scientific text-book, all scientific statements founds in the scriptures must nevertheless be taken literally and at face value.Its Prophetic accuracy. One of the acidic tests of any religion is its ability to predict the future. One fifth of the Bible is prophetical as at the time of writing, many have been fulfilled and others will still come to pass.It has universal influence upon civilization Western civilization is founded directly upon the Bible and its teachings.Its amazing circulation: It is the best seller among all books that are printed.Its absolute honesty.

The book did not spare men that seem to be close to God e.g. David, Moses, Elijah, Peter, etc. It exposed their sins, weakness, commitment, faithfulness and strength.Its life transforming power: The greatest proof of all that the Bible is indeed God’s word is its amazing ability to change corrupt humanity.Bible is not any book written by any man that can go for scripture. The term canon means a “reed” a “measure” or “rule” and suggests the testing of books to see if they meet the Divine standard.

The sixty-six books of the Bible is called Canon. By the year 300 B. C. (at the latest) all old Testament books had been written, collected, revered, and recognized as official canonical books. In A.D. 397, the twenty seven New Testament books were declared Canonical. There are some books in the Catholic Douay Bible which are known as Apocrypha (hidden) books, they are not recognized as inspired for the following reasons: They were not included in the Old Testament Canon, They were never quoted by Jew, Jesus or any New Testament writers. None of the claims divine inspiration. Some of them teach false doctrine such as praying for the dead. Lastly, some contain historical and geographical errors.

The central theme of the Bible is Jesus Christ and His redemption. Jesus said, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me (John 5:39; Please read Luke 24:24-27, 44-45). Christ is in the Old Testament concealed and He is in the New Testament revealed. To fully understand the Bible and to rightly interpret its passage, we must first receive Jesus Christ as Savior and have a clear and definite experience of freedom from sin and its consequences.